Bill Carter on James Gandolfini: “The guy changed television”

The announcement of James Gandolfini’s unexpected death on Wednesday evening rocked and devastated friends, family and the world of entertainment. New York Times Television reporter Bill Carter joined Piers Morgan by telelphone to remember the legend behind the beloved character, Tony Soprano:

“He was a warm guy ... sort of reserved, and not at all like his character. But, you know, full of life. I mean, the guy was just a force, a tremendous physical force and really a superb talent. I mean, the guy was - this performance as Tony Soprano, I mean, it changed television.”

According to Carter, Gandolfini’s performances changed both the acting and television worlds. “The center point of dramatic acting shifted from movies to television because of him. I mean, he just changed the way people regard television and actors came to television because they could perform at this level after watching him.”

Simultaneously terrifying and loveable, Gandolfini left behind a legacy that will be remembered throughout theatrical history.

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